“THE EAPN WE WANT”: “Changing our methods and structures” 2011 Positions of the Greek Network

Changes need to result to: A more democratic, participatory and decentralized in decision making EAPN A better balance between policy analysis and activism A better interconnection of the European, national and local levels A more accountable, flexible and independent work method Clearer distribution of responsibilities in the different structures- mandates A more economical in both work and finances allocation of funds to allow for new contents and support to its members

A balancing act….

The proposed structure Strives to enhance participation of PEP while maintains EAPN as a network of networks Is more flexible and economical- reduces overlaps and gives equal footing to participatory processes Allows for bottom –up of work (agendas and content)

PEP SPC General Assembly Members meeting Participation Members meeting BUREAU Members meeting Participation And Capacity Building Task Force: Participation Ad hoc groups Members meeting Strategic -Policies Task Force Social Inclusion- Employment PEP SPC SECRETARIAT

EAPN General Assembly Every 2 years Reduction in numbers of existing distribution on networks delegates(8→6, 6 →4, and 2 remains) Overall 3 days (statutory business, capacity building and exchange between networks only- not policy oriented workshops. 1 day to host network activities) Acceptance of 2 years working plan and finances- (gives mandate to Members Meeting for the year between) The first half day parallel extended Task Forces

Members Meetings 2 distinct meetings annually -fixed term for 2 years 1 with mandate on enhancing participation of PEP with 3 delegates per network (1 from the TF where applicable and 5 from EU organisations) 1 with mandate on strategic policy analysis with 3 delegates per network Their mandate and work content will be discussed and agreed on GA They will set the objectives of the relevant Task Forces and ad hoc groups They will relate with the PEP meeting and the work of the SPC via the TF work They will have different working methods deriving from agendas set by the delegates (Open Space, Search Conference, World Café etc)

Task Forces 16-18 members selected at Members Meetings based on set criteria (may consider CVs) Meetings 3 times per year (one in the GA with extended participation and presentation of work achievements – work plan for 2 years) 3 coordinators per TF elected at the GA based on criteria and experience (2 experienced -3 years on EAPN and 1 non experienced or PEP) In Participation Task Force 3-1 participation of PEP In the Strategic Policy TF 3-1 participation based on experienced on policy issues members They will directly work with the PEP meeting and the work of the SPC

Bureau 11 members on 2 years term, elected directly by the GA on a similar to the existing voting system: (1 President, 5 Vise Presidents, 5 members) 3 representatives from PEP, 2 from EU organizations ( to be achieved in a transition period of 4 years, based on capacity building of PEP) Same function as now with extended meetings (possibly 2 days) 4 meetings annually (one during the Participation Members meeting) Introduction of the possibility of some teleconferencing intervals-meetings via Skype

Why not an EXCO? Not needed! Extended GA (democratic ) and Bureau (effective) allocated responsibilities The networks have 2 fixed delegates in the Members Meetings taking significant decisions on the core of the network’s work and with the capacity to do it! More economical and with internal economies of scales

Reforming our policy agendas and priorities Identify policies that generate poverty and inequality also looking at the causes not the remedies Proactive not responsive Action oriented (campaigns, activism) Communicating our messages to bigger audiences (a communication strategy)

BUILDING CAPACITY IN THE NETWORK Establish a diversified Capacity Building Strategy catering for different needs. Participation of PEP needs a clear strategy and commitment- Allocation of resources to National Networks on a long term basis with specific goals Trainings based on needs assessment

Acknowledging the global dimension of poverty Globalization and Poverty Strong Global Alliances Focus on Sustainable Development